Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl with 42g of Protein Recipe
Introduction
This Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl is a delicious and protein-packed meal perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner. Combining tender chicken with creamy cottage cheese, tangy ranch, and smoky BBQ sauce, it’s a flavorful bowl that keeps your nutrition goals on track.
Ingredients
- 1 Just Bare (or similar) chicken filet
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese (Good Culture brand recommended)
- 2 tbsp Ranch dressing (Bolthouse Farms recommended)
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (G.Hughes recommended)
- 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese, reduced fat
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the chicken filet by grilling, baking, or pan-frying until fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Step 2: While the chicken cooks, scoop ½ cup of low-fat cottage cheese into your serving bowl.
- Step 3: Once the chicken is cooked, slice it and place it on top of the cottage cheese in the bowl. Drizzle the ranch dressing and BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese on top to add a flavorful finish.
- Step 5: Serve immediately for the best taste, or refrigerate if preparing ahead for a convenient meal later.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, add some diced cucumber or shredded lettuce to your bowl.
- Try swapping the BBQ sauce for a spicy chipotle version to add heat.
- Use grilled vegetables on the side for a balanced and colorful meal.
- To keep it dairy-free, substitute cottage cheese and cheddar with avocado slices and nutritional yeast.
Storage
Store the assembled bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken portion gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, then add the cold cottage cheese, ranch, and cheese afterward to maintain their texture and coolness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.
Is this meal suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. This bowl keeps well refrigerated for a couple of days, making it a convenient and protein-rich option for meal prep lunches or dinners.
PrintMacro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl with 42g of Protein Recipe
This Macro Friendly BBQ Ranch Chicken Bowl is a high-protein, flavorful dish combining tender grilled or baked chicken with creamy low-fat cottage cheese, tangy ranch dressing, smoky BBQ sauce, and a sprinkle of reduced-fat cheddar cheese. Perfect for meal prep or a quick, nutritious lunch or dinner, this bowl offers 42 grams of protein to keep you fueled and satisfied.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 Just Bare (or similar) chicken filet
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese (Good Culture brand recommended)
- 2 tbsp shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
Sauces
- 2 tbsp Ranch dressing (Bolthouse Farms recommended)
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce (G.Hughes recommended)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken filet until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness). This ensures the chicken is juicy and safe to eat.
- Prepare the Bowl: While the chicken is cooking, scoop ½ cup of low-fat cottage cheese into your serving bowl as the creamy base.
- Assemble the Bowl: Once the chicken is cooked, slice it into strips and layer it on top of the cottage cheese. Drizzle 2 tablespoons each of ranch dressing and BBQ sauce over the chicken for tangy and smoky flavors.
- Finish the Bowl: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese over the top for an extra burst of cheesy goodness.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately while warm, or refrigerate for convenient meal prep the next day.
Notes
- Cooking time for chicken may vary depending on thickness; always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
- Choose low-fat or reduced-fat dairy options to keep the bowl macro-friendly.
- This bowl can be customized with your favorite BBQ sauce or ranch dressing brands.
- Great option for meal prepping; store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a low-carb version, skip the cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Keywords: BBQ Chicken Bowl, High Protein Chicken Bowl, Macro Friendly Meal, Healthy Chicken Bowl, BBQ Ranch Chicken, Low Fat Chicken Recipe, Meal Prep Chicken Bowl
